Boston Engineering is developing the GhostSwimmer™ Autonomous Undersea Vehicles (AUV) based on the design of comparably sized biological systems (fish and cetaceans) for inspiration. There is a large body of experimental data that suggests oceanic biological systems achieve high propulsive efficiencies (to 87%), and have extraordinary abilities to maneuver at both high and low speeds, far in advance of any conventional man-made vehicle. They do so using a flexible, streamlined body propelled by a single oscillating tail foil, an appropriately placed set of pectoral (and auxiliary) fins and a finely tuned muscular/sensory/control system.
The GhostSwimmer™ strives to significantly advance UUV technology by modeling it after fish because they have already solved the propulsion and maneuverability problem that plagues UUVs. In a strictly engineering sense where speed, maneuverability and endurance are crucial to survival, fish are very close to an optimal design. The distinguishing factor between GhostSwimmer™ and other biomimetic systems is tactical relevance. This vehicle is built to be functional, useful, payload carrying, robust, user-friendly, and optimized for mission performance.
The GhostSwimmer Configuration is distinguished by the articulated caudal fin